Teen Throws Loaded Handgun Into Bushes At Trumbull Mall: Police

TRUMBULL, CT — A teen was arrested Thursday after he discarded a loaded handgun while running from police, who were investigating a stolen car at the Westfield Trumbull Mall.

In a news release, Police Lt. Brian Weir said officers found an unoccupied Infinity SUV, which had been reported stolen from Darien on May 11, parked at the mall around 9:30 p.m.

As officers were investigating the stolen vehicle, a 17-year-old man exited the mall and walked toward the stolen car. When the teen saw police, he ran from the area with officers chasing behind, Weir said.

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As the teen was running, he reached into his waistband and threw a handgun into the bushes nearby, Weir said. When officers caught up to the teen after a brief chase on foot, the key to the Infiniti was found in his possession.

Police also found the loaded handgun and were working to trace its origin to identify its owner, Weir said. No injuries were reported.

The teen was charged with first-degree larceny, criminal possession of a firearm, carrying a pistol without a permit and interfering with an officer. Police did not release the identity of the teen.

The teen was later released to the custody of his mother on a promise to appear in juvenile court later this month, Weir said.